Nature: A Walking Play

Photo Credit: Winslow Townson

This event took place in September 2019.

The Trustees and TigerLion Arts present Nature, the mythic telling of Emerson and Thoreau’s mutual love affair with the natural world. The Old Manse in Concord—where Ralph Waldo Emerson lived while writing his famous essay “Nature” and where he, Henry David Thoreau, and other leading Transcendentalists discussed and debated the issues of the day—provides the most fitting location for a stop on this nationwide touring production.

Grounded in the story of their friendship, this virtuosic production offers a perspective on their lives that is strikingly relevant, richly complex, and yet utterly simple. Nature is performed outdoors as a “walking play.” A professional ensemble of actors takes the audience on a journey through the natural environment as scenes unfold around them. Bagpipes, ancient flutes, drums, and rich choral arrangements are intricately woven into the experience.

Nature is a lively, entertaining, yet deeply thought-provoking opportunity to experience a live performance in a beautiful, historic, outdoor setting. Participants follow the actors as the scenes unfold in the grassy meadows and native trees over a 90 minutes performance, which includes pre-event period bagpiping and choral music. Participants are encouraged to pack a light picnic, wear comfy clothes, and bring lawn chairs and blankets to help them fully enjoy the experience. The play is family-friendly. Tickets are $25 for Trustees Members and $15 for their children; $35 for nonmembers and $20 for their children. Following several performances, will be post-show discussions and special events for theater goers to stick around and gain further context and a deeper experience.

"The first in time and the first in importance of the influences upon the mind is that of nature."—Ralph Waldo Emerson

Location

Important InformationThis is an outdoor play, which involves walking to follow the action as it moves around the property. Performances are rain or shine, except in dangerous weather conditions. A cancellation decision will be made two hours prior to showtime and will be emailed to ticket holders, as well as shared on this page, and the Old Manse Facebook page. If a show cancelled, ticketholders will be rebooked as possible or refunded. All ticket holders not rebooked within 48 hours will be automatically refunded.All Nature Attendees must take a complimentary shuttle. No parking will be allowed at the Old Manse. Complete shuttle details will be sent with the event tickets.